Luc Vanoirbeek, spokesperson for the Belgian farmers’ union, the Boerenbond, is set to become the new secretary general of the Federation of Belgian Horticultural Cooperatives (VBT), according to a report in Vilt.

On 1 October, Vanoirbeek will take over from Philippe Appeltans, who has been chosen as the new CEO of Belgium’s largest auction, BelOrta.

"I see it as a logical continuation of my career,” said Vanoirbeek. “After all, I have a great faith in cooperatives, something that is also in Boerenbond's DNA, to strengthen the farmer's position by working together."

Luc Vanoirbeek has a long track record at Boerenbond, according to Vilt. Having started at Groene Kring 32 years ago, where he became chairman, Vanoirbeek moved to the Boerenbond to work as a social adviser on employment and seasonal work.

He became the provincial secretary for Limburg and a consultant for fruit growing. In 2007, he again held the position as advisor, first for the horticulture sector, then for international relations.

On 1 November last year, Vanoirbeek succeeded Anne-Marie Vangeenberghe as spokesperson for Boerenbond.

"In that sense, my switch is somewhat surprising,” he said. “But some opportunities do not happen every year, hence my decision."

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